Order Rosales

The Rosales is a large widely-distributed order of 9 families of dicotyledenous flowering shrubs, trees and herbs, taking its name from the Rosaceae (rose family). The Order is especially well-represented in the Northern Hemisphere. The Rosales includes Cannabaceae (hemp family), Moraceae (mulberry family), Rhamnaceae (buckthorn family), Ulmaceae (elm family) and Urticaceae (nettle family) and three other small or monotypic families. Leaves are alternate with stipules. Flowers are usually perfect with five sepals and petals, numerous stamens and an inferior ovary, and produce abundant pollen and nectar to attract insects. Sepals are fused at their base. Plants often bear thorns or hairs. Fruits are achenes, drupes or aggregates.
 
Many Rosales are grown for fruit or other products. The Rosaceae are widely cultivated for their fruit (apple, currant, cherry, peach, pear, plum, raspberry, strawberry). Roses are among the most popular garden plants.
 
Cannabaceae (hemp family) are the source of fibres for textiles and paper and includes the important genus Humulus (Hops) cultivated for the brewing industry.
 
The Moraceae includes Ficus (figs) and Morus (mulberries), both cultivated for their fruit. Ficus includes numerous herbs and small trees that are popular indoor plants.
 
Succulent plants occur among the Moraceae in the genera Dorstenia and Ficus. Some Ficus ( e.g. F. palmeri ) "self-bonsai" into attractive minature trees with swollen trunks.
Many of the Urticaceae (Nettle Family) are best avoided, but the genus Pilea is without stinging hairs and includes a succulent species with attractive variegated foliage.